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Profession: Nutrition Services & Health Promotion

Dietetic Technician: Dietetic Technicians work under the supervision of a registered dietitian to help plan, implement, and assess nutritional programs and services. The technician screens patients to identify nutritional problems and provides patient education and counseling to individuals or groups. They may oversee food service personnel and be responsible for monitoring food inventories and ordering supplies.

Salary Range: $30,000 - $40,000

Salary Notes: According to the American Dietetic Association, entry-level dietetic technicians earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year, with some higher earnings reported among those with greater responsibility and experience.

Where you can study:
Briarwood College, Southington, CT
Gateway Community College, New Haven, CT
Southern Maine Community College, South Portland, ME
University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH

Where you might work:
Community Health Centers - Correctional Facilities - Food Companies - Health Clubs - Hospitals - Nursing Facilities - Public Health Agencies - Schools and Day Care Centers -

Job Outlook: The job market for registered dietetic technicians is assumed to be similar to that for dietitians and nutritionists, which is faster than average. Growth is anticipated in nursing homes, residential care facilities, and physician clinics.

Education, Licensing and Certification: A high school diploma and a two-year associate degree at an accredited college or university or the equivalent is needed to prepare for the certification exam. Programs include classes in food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems management and general science courses.

Professional Organizations:
American Dietetic Association 800-877-1600 www.eatright.org